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Kendra Scott Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute
The Kendra Scott Women's Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute is a University of Texas at Austin initiative founded in 2019 in Austin, Texas.
Kendra Scott Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute
The Kendra Scott Women's Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute is a University of Texas at Austin initiative founded in 2019 in Austin, Texas. It focuses on growing women-owned and women-led businesses through community, diversity, and inclusivity. The institute has made one investment, in Hera Biotech, as part of a Seed VC round on August 24, 2022.
General information
Firm type
other
Location
Region
North America
Country
United States
City
New York
Corporate office
New York, NY, United States
Additional offices
San Francisco, CA, United States · Solana Beach, CA, United States · Austin, TX, United States
Sector focus
Frequently asked questions
Who runs investment decisions at Kendra Scott Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute?
Investment decisions at KS WELI are managed by the institute's leadership team under Kendra Scott's oversight. Specific names of principals are not publicly listed. The institute reports into the broader Kendra Scott LLC corporate structure.
How does KS WELI source deal flow for its grant recipients?
KS WELI sources participants through its accelerator programs, university partnerships, and open application cycles. It does not operate as a venture capital fund with a proprietary deal flow network.
Is KS WELI structured as a single family office or as a philanthropic foundation?
KS WELI is not a single-family office. It is a corporate philanthropic initiative integrated within Kendra Scott LLC, distinct from a standalone family office or private foundation.
Does KS WELI make equity investments or only grants?
KS WELI primarily provides grants and programmatic support, not equity investments. It does not take ownership stakes in the businesses it supports.
What investment stages does KS WELI typically target?
KS WELI targets early-stage women entrepreneurs, often at the idea or pre-seed stage. Its programs are designed to provide foundational capital and education before founders seek traditional venture funding.
Which sectors does KS WELI explicitly focus on?
KS WELI supports women entrepreneurs across all sectors, with no explicit sector restrictions. Its programs prioritize female founders, regardless of industry.
Where does the underlying wealth for KS WELI come from?
KS WELI is funded by Kendra Scott LLC, the jewelry company founded by Kendra Scott. The wealth originates from the commercial success of the retail brand.
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